Pitfalls of Packaging: Behind the Bottling Line: Problems, Solutions & Results with Hirsch Hill

What actually happens when wine hits the line? This hands-on session takes you behind the scenes of Hirsch Hill’s fully automated bottling system for a rare look at the decisions, challenges, and realities of modern wine packaging at scale.

Led by Assistant Winemaker Llewellyn Sadlier and Chief Winemaker Peter Mackey, this session is a frank and practical exploration of how one winery tackled common bottling headaches and what they learned through full automation — from equipment choices to process fine-tuning.

They’ll be joined by technical experts from Grapeworks and AEB, including Bruce Hawkins, Head Technician at Grapeworks, whose 25+ years of experience spans installation, service, and running bottling facilities across Australia.

Key Takeaways:

• Common pitfalls in bottling and how to avoid them

• What automation can and can’t solve

• Tips for preparing wine, dry goods, and your team

• What to expect from a custom-built system

• Expert Q&A: answers from those who build and run bottling lines

Practical Info:

• Please wear enclosed, flat-soled shoes (drains in winery floor)

• Light refreshments and networking from 4:30–5:00 PM

• Come with your questions — our presenters will stay on for informal discussion